Anatomy of the nasopharynx

Author(s)

R Sigal, JP Francke

Patient

male, 35 year(s)

Clinical History

Imaging Findings

Comparison between CT and MR views and specimen

Discussion

The nasopharynx is a cavity located behind the ethmoid and
nasal cavities through which it communicates via the choanae,
under the base of the skull, above the oral cavity and
oropharynx. Endoscopic examination allows to visualize the
pharyngeal recess of Rosenmuller (filed with adenoids in
children and young adults), and the opening of the Eustachian
tube. Both structures are separated by the torus tubarius
(levator levi palatini muscle). Laterally and posteriorly,
the nasopharynx is related to the deep spaces of the
suprahyoid neck, particularly, the parapharyngeal, masticator
and carotid spaces.